2018 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

After months of endless rumors, we have finally spotted the 2018 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 making test runs. However, the sports car was under heavy camouflage. Since the C7 was delivered to dealerships in 2013, enthusiasts have been eagerly waiting for the automaker to offer the range-topping ZR1 which was conspicuously missing from the lineup.

At one time in the recent past, GM had said the model would not be produced so the photos of the model doing testing runs are quite a surprise to enthusiasts. According to credible sources, the high-performing Corvette is slotted for 2017 as a 2018 model car. Read along to find out more:

2018 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Exterior

As you can see from the photos, the model we captured making test runs was under heavy camouflage. However, we can still see some special features that indicate this is a special Corvette.

The most visible features are the huge air vents on each corner of the front fascia. These intakes means, the model has an intercooler which further hints at a powerful V-8 under the hood. Compared to the Z06, the model we captured features a larger hood bulge which hints at an extra gear.

The other visible features are its blue brake calipers which were unique features for the previous Corvette ZR1 (I don’t think this is a mere coincidence). The model also feature unpainted doors, an indicator the automaker is testing carbon-fiber components in a bid to keep the ZR1’s weight as minimum as possible.

The rear features two struts protruding out which hint at a rear wing. Other surfaces were under heavy camouflage. We will reveal more information about the ZR1’s exterior styling when we manage to capture the model with less camouflage.

2018 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Interior

Little is known about the interior of the 2018 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. Our spy photographers have not also managed to get close enough to take snap shots of its cabin. However, we believe the ZR1 will be based on the standard C7 Corvette and the Z06.

However, Chevrolet will add few unique features to set it apart from the C7 and the Z06. Carbon-fiber will be extensively used on the cabin to ensure the model’s weight is kept as minimum as possible. Among the most probable additions will be a unique instrument cluster and a new infotainment system featuring a bespoke menu.

Engine and performance

Chevrolet has not made official announcements of the drive-train that will power the ZR1. According to rumors, the sports car will be motivated by a twin-turbocharged V-8 mill. The engine is believed to be an LT5 which will also power the upcoming Corvette Zora. However, other rumors argue that the automaker will use an

However, other rumors argue that the automaker will use an intercooled and supercharged LT4 small-block mill with a displacement of 6.5 liters. While various factions differ about the possible engine, they all agree that whatever the mill chosen, it will produce over 700 horses. Transmission will likely be done by a 7-speed Tremec transaxle as standard and GM’s 10-speed automatic transmission system as an option.

The huge power boost will enable the ZR1 to hit 60 mph from standstill in 2.8 seconds and attain a top speed in excess of 205 mph.

Corvette ZR1 Render

Price and release date

According to credible sources, Chevrolet will showcase the model at the 2017 North American Motor Show at Detroit in January. Deliveries to dealerships will follow later during the year.

The automaker has not announced official prices for the ZR1 but the model is expected to cost around $110,000 just like the previous model.